Joy of Normal

"Normal day, let me be aware of the treasure you are. Let me learn from you, love you, bless you before you depart. Let me not pass you by in quest of some rare and perfect tomorrow. Let me hold you while I may, for it may not always be so. One day, I shall dig my nails into the earth, or bury my face in the pillow, or stretch myself taut, or raise my hands to the sky and want, more than all the world, your return." ~ Mary Jean Iron


I read this quote for the first time two day ago on one of my favorites blogs (Enjoying the Small Things by Kelle Hampton) and since then I have read it over and over and over and over. It may be my new favorite quote of all time because I think that may it contains the meaning of life.  I have also seen this summed up as  This too shall pass.  People often use this phrase during difficult times, but the truth of it is the same during the amazing times, and everything in between.

My mom (the greatest mom in the world) has tried to instill this concept in me my entire life.  Appreciate the moment for what it is. Be where you are.  I know it, I understand it, but it is easier said than done.  When my son was a newborn, the first weeks were so difficult, recovering from the physical trauma, the sleeplessness, the breastfeeding drudgery and I remember thinking, I can't wait until he is bit older and can hold his head up, stop spitting up, stop changing diapers. I can't wait to sleep more than 2 hours in a row...

Now he is nearing his second birthday and those first few groggy days seem like a lifetime ago and I wish I could remember exactly how he felt in my arms as rocked him to sleep. I know there were moments where I was aware of the treasure I had, but I know I did not acknowledge it enough. So this is something I am always working on, especially where my little man is concerned.  So right now, I am going to tuck him in (again), kiss each chubby little finger and thank God for all the amazing joys in a normal day.


Blessings on your eyes, blessing on your children. Blessing on the ground beneath you...